The further education and training sector in Ireland offers more opportunities than ever for learners, opening doors to new or better jobs or further or higher education and training.

The National Qualification Framework (NQF) is the formally controlled quality assured awarding framework for all learning and education in Ireland. The framework- which encompasses all levels of training and education in the State - is sectioned into two – FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council) and HETAC (Higher Education and Training Awards Council)

The framework is comprised of ten levels and is often depicted in the shape of a fan, (see below). Levels 1 to 6 are awarded under the remit of FETAC and levels 6 to 10 by HETAC. Level 6 overlaps both entities. Each level of education and learning on the framework is defined in terms of standards of knowledge, skills and competence.

The standards define the learning outcomes to be achieved by Learners seeking to gain an award at each level within the framework. The Learner is assessed against the stated standard in order to gain an Award.